INTERVIEWS & INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES

A job interview is the process in which a potential employee is evaluated by an employer for prospective employment in their Company or organization.

It is a mutual exchange of information between an employer and a candidate for a position

    Objectives of a job Interview

•          Supply information about yourself that is not contained in your CV
•         Show that you understand yourself and have a sense of direction in your career.
•         Enable the employer to evaluate your personality and the position.
•        Allow you to gain information about the organization and the job.
•      Give you and the employer an opportunity to discuss the desirability of further contact or an offer  of  employment

Preparing for an interview

Research: Find out as much as you can about the jobs and what the employer is looking for. Find a job description of list worker specifications of the Company has them.  Try to know more or much about the company its self.

Inquire: Find out the company’s interview procedures, how many candidates there may be, if you will have to take a test.

Study: You may be out of school, but you will always need to study.  Look at the information you’ve gathered as well as your own CV, and know it by heart.

Think:  What questions will they ask you?  What questions will you ask them/

Dress:  It is common for people to judge upon first appearances.  Look smart, but it should not look like you are trying too hard.  Your clothing should be neat and tidy.

Commonly Asked questions

1. Tell us more about yourself.

This seems like an easy question, but it can be tricky make sure you a can outline your life and career in a clear and logical way.  Match what you say with the job requirements.  Emphasise your relevance.  A HRM for example:

I am a dedicated person with a family of two.  I enjoy reading and the knowledge and added perspective which my reading has given me has strengthened my managing skills and presentation abilities.  I have been succsssful at managing employees in my previous job.  I attribute this success to my ability to plan, schedule, and handle may different ask of once. And I am also a good team player who can work with different people.

2. Why do you want to work here?

 What do you know about the company?             

What do you think of the Company?
Usually these questions mean the same

This is the chance for you to tell them or show them you have done your research.  Show you skills, qualifications and experience and how those skills can contribute to the goals of the organization. Align those skills with what you know about the Company.

For example:  I know the Company  needs a competent hand to help contribute to the goal of the Authority when it comes to fire and safety and I believe am the person the Company is looking for.

3.  What makes you think you may be the best person for the Job?

Do not criticise other candidates.  Emphasize on your own qualities and attributes.

4.  Why did you leave your last Job / position?

Do not criticise your previous employer(s) – give positive reason for leaving. Describe what you want to gain from a new job than focusing on the old.

5. What will you like to be doing in five years time?

Don’t be led away from the job you are applying for. By all means, state that you have ambition, and that you plan to develop your career. But show that you can be dedicated to their company, rather than implying short term interest.

6. What salary do you expect to receive?

Avoid starting an amount. You neither want to rule yourself out by asking for too much, nor to under sell yourself by pitching too low. Politely throw the question back to the employer: what sort of salary is an offer. Or you can say: I believe a company like this has a salary structure for its employees, so I believe I will be treated fairly.

 Answering

The interviewer has only your CV and cover letter for information about you. How you answer will add volumes to the simple summary they already have.

NOTE: Before answering you need to have listened carefully to the question. If you are unclear as to what the interviewer is asking, politely ask them to clarify.

   POINTS TO NOTE

•  Take a little time to think before answering.
•   Speak clearly, and stick to the point. If it’s not relevant to the topic at hand, leave it out.
•  Don’t ramble.
•   Don’t be vague
•   Avoid straight “yes’ and “no’ responses. If possible be sure to clarify you answers.
• The importance of preparation for interviews cannot be stressed too much. Plan and practice what you will say, how you will say it, and what questions you will ask. If you don’t, there will be someone who will. The most prepared candidate may get the job before a more qualified candidate.

           In summary

                      Before the interview

•         Research about the company
•       Carefully re-read the job advert(if any), job description and your CV
•         Make a list of question you will like to ask
•          Be there early
•          Take with you relevant certificates, qualifications etc.
•          Dress smart
•          Be pleasant to the receptionist(if any)

                     At the interview

•          Relax
•          Give a firm handshake (if offered)
•         Sit down only when you are asked
•         Avoid folding your arms
•         Look the interviewer in the eye
•         Smile and appear interested
•          Listen carefully to what you are asked or told
•         Be friendly even humorous
•         Pause to think before answering.
•         Avoid criticizing previous employers or colleagues
•       Thank the interviewer for his or her time
•        Make sure you know what happens next, if there’s when you should contact them.

                        Do Not

•          Drink alcohol before the interview
•         Smoke, even if invited
•         Argue with the interviewer
•       Simply answer “yes’ or ‘no’

                         And Above all pray to God to guide and protect you. Ask for wisdom and let him        lead your path.

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